NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday described the Union Budget 2026-27 as a significant stride towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat. Speaking to reporters after watching the budget presentation at an event in North West Delhi's Tri Nagar area alongside local residents, Gupta emphasized that the budget comprehensively addresses various segments of society and fosters multiple dimensions of trade and business.
Budget's Inclusive Approach and Key Highlights
Gupta elaborated that the budget offers substantial benefits across diverse sectors, with particular focus on employment generation for the youth, conservation and development of cultural heritage, sports promotion, and rebates for accessing education and health services abroad. She underscored the budget's holistic nature, stating it caters to the needs of different societal groups while stimulating economic growth.
Disaster Management and Infrastructure Boost
The Chief Minister expressed optimism regarding Delhi's prospects, especially concerning the grants allocated to cities for disaster management. She highlighted the budget's allocation of 1.4 lakh crore to states, praising it as a commendable effort that will empower them to enhance emergency response infrastructure and bolster preparedness against natural calamities.
Historic Presentation and Fiscal Devolution
Gupta extended her congratulations to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting what she termed a "spectacular" budget for the nation. Sitharaman, while unveiling the Budget for 2026-27 in the Lok Sabha, reiterated India's commitment to progressing towards becoming a Viksit Bharat. This budget marked a historic moment as Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive budget, making her the longest-serving finance minister in the country's history.
Additionally, the finance minister tabled the 16th Finance Commission report, which outlines the framework for tax revenue devolution between the Centre and states for the period 2026-2031. This step is crucial for ensuring fiscal federalism and equitable distribution of resources, further supporting regional development initiatives.
